David Alaba stands on the verge of his competitive debut for Udinese Calcio, with the 34-year-old defender positioned to feature in Monday’s Serie A fixture against FC Torino, LAOLA1 reported. Following his departure from Real Madrid and an off-season without a club, the Austrian national team captain signed a one-year deal in late September and has spent the past fortnight training fully with his new squad.
Kickoff at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino is scheduled for 20:45 local time (UTC+2) on Monday, October 12, 2026. The fixture pits 14th-placed Udinese against a Torino side sitting directly alongside them in the Serie A standings, as both clubs look to reverse a difficult run of early-season form.
Kosta Runjaic Outlines the Tactical Plan for the Defense
Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic confirmed that the club intends to deploy Alaba primarily as a central defender within a three-man backline. Speaking ahead of the match, the manager noted that the veteran can cover all three positions across the defensive unit.
According to Runjaic, the club targeted Alaba to inject tactical organization into a backline that has struggled for stability. “He is good on the ball, plays many vertical passes, communicates a lot with his teammates and gives us the organization in the defensive that we have missed a little,” Runjaic stated, as translated by Tuttomercatoweb. The coach also highlighted Alaba’s reading of the game and decision-making under pressure.
Physical Readiness and the Challenge of Managing a Long Layoff
Despite being cleared for full training, Alaba enters the match after an extended break from competitive fixtures. His last official appearance came on July 2, 2026, during the World Cup against Spain, capping a summer that saw his contract with Real Madrid expire after five years.
Runjaic emphasized that the coaching staff will handle the defender’s workload carefully to avoid setbacks. While noting that the player feels physically prepared, the manager pointed out that Alaba does not yet possess the endurance for a full 90-minute contest, meaning a starting role versus a substitute appearance remains a game-day decision.
Gian Luca Nani on Landing a Champions League Winner
Technical Director Gian Luca Nani expressed satisfaction at securing a player of Alaba’s stature for the Friuli club. Describing the four-time Champions League winner as a marquee addition who brings genuine winning mentality, Nani noted that the club expects the veteran to act as a mentor to younger squad members.
Alaba himself embraced this leadership mandate, comparing the assignment to his previous tenure with Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and the Austrian national team. “It is not the first time in my career that I take on the role of the ‘big brother,'” Alaba remarked to sport.ORF.at, adding that he consulted former Bayern teammate Franck Ribery about Italian football before finalizing his move to Serie A.
Broadcasting and Viewing Options for Supporters
Fans in Austria and across the region can follow the match live through subscription streaming services, as DAZN holds the broadcast rights for the Monday night encounter. Coverage begins ahead of the 20:45 kickoff from Turin, with minute-by-minute updates also provided across regional sports tickers.
Frequently Asked Questions About David Alaba at Udinese
What position will David Alaba play for Udinese Calcio?
Head coach Kosta Runjaic stated that Alaba is primarily planned as a central defender who can fill any of the three slots in the team’s defensive backline.
When did David Alaba join Udinese, and what are the contract terms?
Alaba signed a one-year contract with Udinese Calcio in late September as a free agent following the expiration of his previous agreement with Real Madrid.
Where can viewers watch the Udinese versus Torino fixture?
The Serie A match is broadcast live via the paid streaming platform DAZN, with kickoff set for Monday at 20:45 local time.
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